Mickey 17, directed by Bong Joon-ho, blends science fiction with unexpected political commentary, something I had not expected before diving in, writes Mudawi Alblooshi. Set in a future where human life is expendable, the film follows Mickey, portrayed by Robert Pattinson, an experimental worker sent on dangerous missions on a distant planet.
From the beginning, the whole thing revolves around Mickey, who is part of a program centred on human testing. I thought it was ethically questionable, however, it’s framed within the context of consent. The plot works as Mickey’s consciousness can be downloaded into a new clone whenever he dies. This leads to a look into identity and the value of human life. The theme rings in today’s world, showing us how far we are willing to go for scientific advancement and the treatment of individuals while researching.
It’s not all doom and gloom for Mickey, though. Nasha, played by Naomi Ackie, comes in as a crucial figure in his journey, serving as a companion. Their chemistry together is beautiful, it mixes both sweet, wholesome moments with a hint of drama, which adds a romantic feel to the movie. However, tensions rise significantly when Mickey discovers that there is an accidental duplication of an individual.
Pattinson’s portrayal of Mickey is impressive. He manages to capture a wide range of emotions, showcasing his extraordinary acting. From moments of vulnerability to outbursts of rebelliousness, he adds so much to his character, who is figuring out what it means to be a “test subject.” His acting just shows how much he has grown and nailed this role.
Mark Ruffalo kills it in his role as a maniacal dictator [Donald Trump, eat your heart out] with severe mommy issues. These are nursed by his malicious wife and partner in crime, Toni Collette, symbolising the darker aspects of humanity. His portrayal of this dictator is superb – it scared me how it shows how different power dynamics are within society.
The political hint in Mickey 17 showcases the story beyond a typical sci-fi movie. It discusses heavy topics such as authoritarianism and getting tests from humans for progress’s sake. This makes the film not only entertaining but also relevant, making us reflect on human nature.
Mickey 17 is definitely the movie to watch, with some great performances and a political twist of sorts that definitely keeps it interesting. If you like a thought-provoking movie that makes you question the reality of our lives and the world we live in, you’re going to love this one.
